Work

About the dissipative dynamical law of Newton

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The thermodynamic basis of classical mechanics is presented. In this framework, ideal Newtonian mechanics emerges as the zero-dissipation limit of a more general, dissipative theory. The thermodynamic approach predicts a novel dissipative contribution to the momentum that depends on the applied force, leading to a damping coefficient with a specific, experimentally testable dependence on the inertial mass and the spring constant. A torsion balance experiment with variable moment of inertia has been designed to measure this effect. Several known equations, including a thermodynamic version of the Eliezer-Ford-O’Connell equation of radiation reaction, are recovered as special cases.

Source: Journal of Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics

DOI: 10.1515/jnet-2026-0034

Author: Peter Ván

Institutions: Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Institute for Particle and Nuclear Physics, HUN-REN Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Montavid Thermodynamic Research Group

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7204489961

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Cites: 33

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